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Cornwall Folk Festival - Betjeman Session

We’re delighted to welcome Detta Kenzie back to Cornwall Folk Festival — an artist who has spoken often of her deep affection for the festival and the warmth she’s found in our audiences. Since her last appearance she’s been on a remarkable upward curve, with a debut UK tour that’s taken her to Beautiful Days, HowTheLightGetsIn London, two sold‑out headline shows including her EP launch at The Barrel House, and a split bill with Sam Kelly at The Water Rats. Her EP, featuring collaborations with Phil Beer and Tobias ben Jacob, has been turning heads, and her debut album — produced by Sam Kelly — is expected ahead of the festival.

Detta’s music blends Celtic‑tinted indie‑folk with a modern, cinematic edge. Her songs explore transformation, survival and renewal, delivered with a voice praised for its precision, emotional honesty and quiet spellcasting. She brings a deep love of language to her writing, shaped by her years as an English teacher, and a fierce commitment to supporting the events she plays — always bringing energy to promotion and connection.

This year she returns with a new creative partner: award‑winning songwriter and guitarist Chris Cleverley. Together they are crafting a sound that feels grounded yet dreamlike — intricate guitar lines, immersive arrangements and a shared instinct for musical storytelling. Their collaboration spans co‑written songs and bold re‑imaginings of folk material, expanding the boundaries of acoustic music while keeping the heart of the tradition close.

Chris also opens the night with a solo set. With five acclaimed albums, national press praise and two FATEA “Male Artist of the Year” awards, he has become one of the most distinctive voices of his generation. His “dream‑folk” songwriting explores landscapes, people and the fragile beauty of the natural world, carried by breathtaking fingerstyle guitar and a warm, immersive stage presence.

A richly atmospheric, beautifully crafted finale to the festival weekend — and a joy to welcome Detta home to Cornwall Folk Festival once again.